The Tennessee Volunteers announced that transfer cornerback Colton Hood earned SEC Co-Defensive Player of the Week honors following his debut performance in Saturday’s 45-26 victory over Syracuse.
Hood played all 84 snaps in the Aflac Kickoff Game. The Colorado transfer stepped into a starting role with preseason All-American Jermod McCoy sidelined and Rickey Gibson expected to miss extended time.
The cornerback returned a fumble 22 yards for a touchdown late in the first quarter.
That score stretched Tennessee’s lead to 17-0 and gave the Vols momentum they never lost. Hood also recorded three pass breakups, leading all SEC defenders in Week 1, according to SEC Sports.
Hood finished with four tackles while disrupting Syracuse’s passing attack throughout the game. He covered receivers in man coverage and provided run support when needed.
Head coach Josh Heupel said Hood’s performance set the tone for the entire defense.
The timing of Hood’s breakout couldn’t be better for Tennessee. With two key cornerbacks unavailable, the Vols needed someone to step up in their season opener against a Power Five opponent.
Hood delivered exactly what Tennessee’s defense needed. His three pass breakups tied for the most by any defender in the SEC’s opening week.
The performance puts Hood on the map as a key player for Tennessee’s defense this season. If he can maintain this level of play, the Vols’ secondary should be in good hands despite the injuries.
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